Importance of Honest Labelling: Protecting the Integrity of Our Honey Industry
As a passionate beekeeper dedicated to producing high-quality honey through sustainable practices, I am committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in all aspects of my work. However, I feel compelled to address a significant issue that has been troubling me: the unfair and potentially misleading labelling practices by some fellow honey sellers. Specifically, the misuse of Total Activity (TA) ratings above a reading of 35 on their product label.
Understanding Total Activity (TA)
Total Activity (TA) is a measure of honey's antibacterial properties, determined through a procedure called a radial diffusion assay. Essentially, honey is placed into a well within a plate containing bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), and its antibacterial effect is measured based on the distance it diffuses into the plate. This distance is compared to a phenol standard, with TA35 referred to as a 35% phenol equivalent.
The Issue at Hand
The Chem Centre in Western Australia, where I send each batch of my honey for testing, explicitly states that while you can make a label claim that the TA is >35% or 35+, it is not permissible to claim a specific value greater than that (e.g., TA 55). The rationale is clear: concentrations higher than 35% are extrapolations beyond the calibration curve, leading to greater uncertainty and making any values above 35 an estimate rather than an accurate measure.
Below is the exact statement from the lab: "You can make a label claim that the TA is >35% or 35+, but not a specific value greater than that (ie not 55%). At concentrations higher than this, they are extrapolating beyond the calibration curve, hence there is greater uncertainty in the measurement and any values >35 are an estimate/indicative."
And further: "These result numbers are above the standard curve, beyond the linear range of the standard curve and therefore designated >35% TA. These numbers are provided for comparative purposes only and are not for use on labels or product claims."
My Frustration
I am deeply frustrated by the actions of some honey sellers who disregard these guidelines and label their products with specific TA values greater than 35, such as TA 50+ or TA 55. This not only undermines the credibility of the TA rating system but also gives an unfair competitive advantage to those who falsely market their honey as having superior antibacterial properties. As someone who follows the rules and values honesty, it is disheartening to see such practices go unchecked.
The Importance of Integrity
By adhering to the established guidelines and transparently labelling our honey, we protect the integrity of our industry and ensure that consumers can trust the quality and claims of the products they purchase.
A Call for Fairness
I urge fellow beekeepers and honey sellers to uphold the principles of honesty and fairness in their labelling practices. Let us work together to maintain the trust of our customers and support an industry built on transparency and integrity. Only by doing so can we ensure that the exceptional qualities of our honey are rightfully recognized and appreciated.
